Maine's State Parks Shine in 2024: Where to Go This Summer

Tis the season for sunny days and warm temperatures. We are transitioning into summer, and not a moment too soon.

For many, this is the best time of year in Maine, and for good reason. Early summer is nearly perfect, with warm days and mild evenings that create an ideal sense of serenity.

It's also the time of year when folks truly begin to take advantage of all this wonderful state has to offer. Fortunately for Mainers, that list is a long one.

While many head to their favorite beach or lake, scores of Mainers will also make their way to the beautiful state parks found throughout the state. And when I say scores, I mean it.

Maine's State Parks Continue to be a Very Popular Destination

The Maine Bureau of Parks and Public Lands revealed earlier this year that more than 3.1 million people visited the state's 42 parks and historic sites in 2024. This impressive figure underscores that people continue to be eager to get outside, whether for health, recreation, or simply to escape boredom.

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The stronger visitation numbers can likely be attributed to Maine's exceptionally sunny and hot summer. With one of the driest summers on record, many days were spent enjoying outdoor activities like hiking or visiting the beach. This weather certainly boosted park attendance, particularly at coastal and beach parks. And, considering how wet 2023 was, it's truly no surprise to see this positive uptick.

What are the Most Popular State Parks in Maine?

The Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands has shared its 2024 Public Use Report, which details the visitation numbers for state parks and historical sites across the state. This report highlights the 20 most visited locations, focusing on day-use visitors (campers are excluded from these statistics).

It's important to note the following about this list:

The rankings only account for day-use visits, not overnight camping.
The Bureau employs a variety of methods to ensure the most accurate visitation data.
Baxter State Park is excluded from these numbers, as it manages its own reservations and visitation data.

With these details in mind, let’s explore the 20 most popular state parks and historic sites in Maine. How many of them have you visited? What is your favorite state park.